Now what... Can anyone help me?

My insurance company quit covering WLS as of 01/01/07.  However, they did allow anyone who was in the process of WLS to continue with it if they notified BCBS by this date.  I sent two letters in November and December of 2006.  I called a few months ago to get some final information before submitting my paperwork and was told (quite conviently) that they did not recieve any of my letters.  Was told to resend certified with a new letter explaining my situation.  I was not asking for them to approve me for the surgery already just wanted them to acknowledge that I had sent the letters and allow me to continue with my plan (surgeon won't see me until they find out it is a covered benefit).  I called yesterday and was told that I am being denied due to the fact that the letters weren't received in time.  The customer service rep told me to appeal in writing and hopefully they would change their minds.  So, I have two questions..  who is in charge of approving or denying these benefits( was put on hold for over 30 mins while the decision was being made.. she had no idea what I was talking about and had to explain my situation again) and second  should I appeal and if so should I go ahead and submit everything I have (psych eval, 6 month diet etc)?  Any help would be greatly appreciated!! Chrissy

Did you send the first letters regular mail?  I don't know if you would win an appeal or not, but it wouldn't hurt to try.  Always, always send letters such as this certified and even return receipt so you have a record of the mailing if not send it via UPS.  Good luck.

It sounds like your employer is in charge of making these decisions.  You should confirm that you have a self-funded plan and take the issue to the HR rep.  They may be able to confirm you were in the WLS process just with office notes or a letter from your doctor.  If they give the green light then you'll be able to submit your request to the insurance for approval.